Although you'll recognize a bit of an anti religion
stance to my blog, I have always had a soft part in
my heart for Buddhism, because it's not really a
religion but more of a philosophy, and because it
does actually come up with some true wisdom. I have
long said that one of the only things Christianity
got almost right is the 10 commandments (besides the
silly ones like blashpemy), but that is kindergarten
level and this college dissertation level. I present
the 14 principals of Engaged Buddhism:

1 Do not be idolatrous about or bound to any
doctrine, theory, or ideology, even Buddhist ones.
Buddhist systems of thought are guiding means; they
are not absolute truth.

2 Do not think the knowledge you presently
possess is changeless, absolute truth. Avoid being
narrow minded and bound to present views. Learn and
practice nonattachment from views in order to be
open to receive others' viewpoints. Truth is found
in life and not merely in conceptual knowledge. Be
ready to learn throughout your entire life and to
observe reality in yourself and in the world at all
times.

3 Do not force others, including children, by
any means whatsoever, to adopt your views, whether
by authority, threat, money, propaganda, or even
education. However, through compassionate dialogue,
help others renounce fanaticism and
narrow-mindedness.

4 Do not avoid suffering or close your eyes
before suffering. Do not lose awareness of the
existence of suffering in the life of the world.
Find ways to be with those who are suffering,
including personal contact, visits, images and
sounds. By such means, awaken yourself and others
to the reality of suffering in the world.

5 Do not accumulate wealth while millions are
hungry. Do not take as the aim of your life fame,
profit, wealth, or sensual pleasure. Live simply
and share time, energy, and material resources with
those who are in need.